How-to

Master Boolean Actions in Vector Ink: Union, Subtract, Intersect & Exclude

Introduction

Boolean actions are the fastest way to build complex shapes from simple ones. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to merge, cut, and combine paths in Vector Ink to create clean, professional vector artwork for logos, icons, and more.

What You’ll Learn

  • The four Boolean functions: Union, Subtract, Intersect, and Exclude Overlap.
  • When to use each operation for clean construction.
  • How compound paths work and why they matter.
  • Pro tips for keeping geometry tidy and editable.

The 4 Boolean Actions Explained

Union (Merge): Combines selected shapes into a single path. Great for fusing overlapping geometry into one clean object.

Subtract (Minus Front): Uses the top shape to cut away from the shape beneath it. Perfect for punching holes or carving details.

Intersect: Keeps only the overlapping area between shapes. Ideal for precise cutouts and emblem centers.

Exclude Overlap: Removes the overlapping region and keeps non-overlapping parts. Useful for decorative rings and frames.

Compound Paths: Holes Inside a Single Shape

A compound path is a single object made from multiple sub-paths (for example, an outer shape with an inner “hole”). After a Subtract, you often end up with a compound path: the outer contour plus an inner contour, stored together as one editable object.

Pro Tips for Clean Boolean Builds

  • Align precisely before combining to avoid hairline gaps.
  • Simplify paths (remove unnecessary points) after heavy edits to keep files lightweight.
  • Duplicate first (⌘/Ctrl+D) if you think you might need the original shapes later.
  • Use layers to separate construction pieces from final artwork for quick revisions.

Start Building Smarter Shapes

Open two overlapping shapes in Vector Ink and try each Boolean action. In minutes, you’ll be constructing logos, badges, and icons with crisp, edit-friendly geometry.

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